Ten teams will slug it out at the 9th edition of the South-East Cricket tournament.
The cricket tournament tagged “Chuma Anosike Cup” will hold at Afikpo, Ebonyi State on the 24th-28th April, this year.
According to the tournament Sponsor, Chuma Anosike, the competition will have six male teams from each of the South-East states and four female teams from Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi and Enugu respectively.
He said, “This year’s tournament will take place in Afikpo, Ebonyi state and we have been assured by the host state that they are prepared to put on a memorable tournament. As some of you may be aware, last year’s tournament was almost marred by an unfortunate incident in Owerri which necessitated the final matches being played in Afikpo.
“I sincerely hope that lessons have been learnt and we do not ever have a recurrence of such unruly behaviour by a host state which is totally against the ‘Spirit of cricket.
“After last year’s edition saw defending champions- UNN (Enugu) and Anambra conquer other contingents, this year’s event seems to be full of surprises and new development,
“We have strived to ensure that all the resources needed for the tournament are made available as prizes will be awarded for outstanding performances in various categories and cash gift for the best teams in both Male and Female side.”
Anosike lauded the NCF (Nigeria Cricket Federation) for including the South-East tournament in the national cricket calendar.
“We are looking to grow the championship by next year making it a weeklong event and adding more teams, so I encourage the state governments and private sectors to provide more supports in terms of finance and also facilities so that cricket can get to its peak,” he added.